Peter Spence

Peter Spence is a reggae artist from Birmingham, England, known for his contributions to the UK's reggae scene. His work has earned acclaim both domestically and internationally, with a career spanning decades and encompassing reggae and gospel music.

Early Life and Musical Beginnings

Peter Spence was born in Birmingham, England, into a musical family. His father, a former band member in Jamaica, taught him to play guitar, laying the foundation for his musical career. In the early 1980s, Spence began his musical journey as a drummer and rhythm guitarist for a band called The Experts. Influenced by Jamaican harmony groups like The Heptones and The Tamlins, he transitioned to singing and became part of a sound system called Imperial Warrior in Balsall Heath, Birmingham.

During this time, the rise of UK reggae sound systems inspired a new generation of artists, including contemporaries like Pato Banton, Macka B, Tippa Irie, and Maxi Priest.

Career Breakthrough

Spence made his recording debut with the track "Frivolous Woman," produced by Birmingham-based G. T. Haynes, who also managed notable reggae artists such as Pato Banton and Tippa Irie. Spence gained significant attention with the hit single "Don't Leave Me Lonely", released on the Greensleeves label. The track earned him a Best Newcomer award and cemented his place in the reggae scene.

He later signed with London-based independent label Fashion Records, where he recorded a series of notable lover’s rock tracks, including "Yesterday's Magic," "I Believe in Love," and "Crazy Feelings." His debut album, I'll Be There, produced by G. T. Haynes, received critical acclaim, winning Best Reggae Album at the Black Music Awards. Spence himself was recognized as Best Male Reggae Singer.

International Success

Spence collaborated with deejay Tippa Irie on the single "Girl of My Best Friend" for Island Records, further boosting his profile. The success of his music led to international tours, including performances in the United States, Japan, and Africa.

Recent Work

In recent years, Spence has shifted his focus to gospel music, completing a new gospel album. He is also dedicated to nurturing emerging talent through his production company, Sidewalk Entertainment & DB Production Company.

Discography

Albums

• I'll Be There (Year Unknown)

Notable Singles

• "Frivolous Woman"
• "Don't Leave Me Lonely"
• "Yesterday's Magic"
• "I Believe in Love"
• "Crazy Feelings"
• "Girl of My Best Friend" (with Tippa Irie)

Awards and Recognition

• Best Newcomer (for "Don't Leave Me Lonely")
• Best Reggae Album (for I'll Be There, Black Music Awards)
• Best Male Reggae Singer (Black Music Awards)

Shamir (musician)

Shamir (born August 28, 1986) is a Kenyan reggae musician specializing in Lovers rock. He is known for his passion for music, inspired by his relationships and daily life experiences, and his collaborations with notable reggae artists and producers.

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Early Life and Education

Shamir was born on August 28, 1986, and grew up in Kibera and Mombasa, Kenya. He attended St Mary’s Primary School in Mwea before moving on to Shauri Moyo Secondary School. It was during his high school years that his interest in music began to take shape.

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Career

Beginnings

In 2006, Shamir decided to pursue music professionally. His journey began in his high school church, where he started singing and composing his own songs. He later became the lead singer of Bad Man College, a band focused on reggae music.

While still in school in 2003, Shamir, then in Form 3, had the opportunity to work with legendary reggae artist Burning Spear. This pivotal moment solidified his commitment to reggae music. In 2006, Shamir embarked on a solo career to further his musical ambitions.

Breakthrough

Shamir’s breakthrough came in 2007 with the release of his hit song "On Fire", which gained significant popularity in the Kenyan music industry. His success opened doors to collaborations with prominent Jamaican producers, including Dean Fraser, Sly Dunbar, and Robbie Shakespeare.

Musical Style

Shamir specializes in Lovers rock, a subgenre of reggae music that he believes resonates deeply with people due to its universal appeal and emotional depth. His music is heavily influenced by themes of love, relationships, and his everyday experiences.

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Personal Interests

Shamir enjoys writing, singing, and producing music. He frequently interacts with older musicians to gain inspiration and knowledge. Additionally, he plays the guitar and is actively involved in music production.

 

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See Also

• Lovers rock
• Reggae music in Kenya

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Rafeelya

Rafeelya is a Boston-born singer with a career marked by diverse experiences and influences. As the youngest of three siblings, she was born to an American mother and a Jamaican father. Her musical journey began in childhood, shaped by early exposure to music and a passion for singing that grew over the years.

Early Life and Musical Beginnings

Rafeelya demonstrated an affinity for music from a young age. She began playing the piano at the age of three and continued until the age of ten. Despite her passion, she stopped due to the strict and outdated teaching methods of her instructor. This early setback did not deter her enthusiasm for music.

Throughout her school years, Rafeelya actively participated in school performances and neighborhood talent shows. She had limited friendships outside of school, often spending her weekends at Vibes Records in Mattapan, Massachusetts. The shop, owned by Junior Rodigan, provided her with exposure to music production and a sense of mentorship. These formative experiences would later lead to career opportunities in England over 15 years later.

Career

Rafeelya’s professional music career began with her first recorded cover song, Brokenhearted (1995), a rendition of the Brandy and Wanya Morris duet. The song was released under the Mastermind record label. In addition to her solo work, Rafeelya became known for creating dubplates and specials for hip-hop deejays, showcasing her versatility in blending musical styles.

Over the years, Rafeelya collaborated with numerous producers and record labels, including Stingray, Mellow Vibes, Thompson Sound, Sir Coxsone Outernational, and Lloyd Brown. Her work spans a variety of reggae styles and genres, demonstrating her adaptability and vocal talent.

AKABU Queens

Rafeelya is a member of the legendary UK-based reggae band AKABU Queens. Formed as the first all-female reggae band in the UK, AKABU has a storied history and has been a trailblazer in the reggae genre. The group has since expanded its lineup, incorporating Rafeelya and singer Makeda Moore. Together, they continue to uphold and evolve the band’s legacy of musical excellence.

Legacy and Influence

Rafeelya’s career reflects a blend of her Jamaican and American heritage, as well as her experiences in both the U.S. and the UK music scenes. Her journey, from talent shows in Boston to performing as part of a pioneering reggae band, highlights her resilience and dedication to her craft.

Naps studied piano as a child and sang in the school choir. On completing her education she became involved in session work providing winsome harmonies at various London-based studios. Her reputation led the highly respected female band Akabu to enrol Naps as their drummer. She toured the globe with the band, earning particular acclaim in Japan and the USA, where the novelty of an all-female reggae band gained them a lot of attention. They resisted major label interest as the contractual stipulations generally involved sexual exploitation and Akabu were determined not to compromise their credibility. When the band was not touring or recording Naps resumed her role as a backing vocalist. She made a notable contribution to Vivian Jones’ highly popular ‘Strong Love’. While performing with Akabu she accompanied UB40 on their Labour Of Love tour. It was at this time that she enjoyed crossover success, when ‘Suffering’ was released on the b-side of UB40’s interpretation of Winston Groovy’s ‘Please Don’t Make Me Cry’. By the early 90s she was finally given the chance to demonstrate her ability as a solo artist. Her debut, the sublime ‘When You’re In Love’, surfaced in 1994. The track was produced by the Ruff Cut Band who released further hits from the singer including, in 1996, a version of Bob Marley And The Wailers’ ‘Hurting Inside’. The band also released several other Naps’ songs, including ‘Sorry’ and the 1997 hit, ‘Slow Whine’. In addition to maintaining a solo career she supported both Janet Lee Davis and Starkey Banton, alongside fellow Akabu member Simmy in session at the ‘A’ Class Studio for Powers Youth. On the live circuit she joined her brother Vincent Nap backing Banton on his celebrated live performances at the Essential concerts in London. She has also worked in session alongside Soul II Soul, Imagination and the Eurythmics. In January 1999 her solo reputation was further enhanced when Ruff Cut released her long awaited debut, defiantly titled No Apologies. Notable tracks included ‘Help Me Lord’, ‘De Herbs’, ‘Mr. Melody’ and a remix of ‘Hurting Inside’.